2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Mitsubishi Galant
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2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant ▼
- Price Range: $5,500 - $18,400
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V6)
- Ride
- Handling/roadholding (GTS)
Cons
- Rear-seat head room
- Cargo room
Vehicle Highlights
Mitsubishi's Galant grew from compact to midsize dimensions in a 2004 redesign that brought new styling and more power. DE and ES models retained a 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine, but gained 20 hp, to 160. The LS and sporty GTS had a 3.8-liter V6 with 230 hp, 35 more than Galant's previous 3.0 V6. A 4-speed automatic was the sole transmission; V6 models included a manual shift gate. All 2004 Galants had 4-wheel disc brakes, keyless entry, and power windows/locks/mirrors. V6 versions came with ABS, which was available for the ES. The GTS had a sport-tuned suspension, specific grille, rear spoiler, leather upholstery, and sunroof. It also included 17-inch alloy wheels vs. the other models' 16-inch steel wheels. Front side airbags were standard for GTS and available for LS and ES. Curtain side airbags were unavailable. Against the 1999-2003 Galant, the '04 grew 4.6 inches in wheelbase, 2.6 in overall length, 3.9 in width, and 2.2 in height. The 2004 Galant lent its platform to Mitsubishi's Endeavor midsize SUV.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mitsubishi Galant LS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 58 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant.
Year to Year Changes
2005 Mitsubishi Galant:
Front side airbags became standard on all Galants for 2005, not just the most-expensive model.
2006 Mitsubishi Galant:
The Galant was unchanged for 2006.
2007 Mitsubishi Galant:
Freshened styling, curtain side airbags, and a sporty Ralliart model headlined the 2007 revamp of Mitsubishi's midsize-sedan line. New for '07, the Ralliart got a 258-hp version of the V6 and used a 5-speed automatic transmission. The '07s got revised nose and tail appearance.
2008 Mitsubishi Galant:
The 2008 Mitsubishi Galant got a slimed-down model lineup. The mid-level SE and GTS models were discontinued.
Our road test for the 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The 4-cylinder Galants have more-than-adequate power for most situations-one test car did a 9.0-second 0-60 mph run--but lack the added driver control of the V6's manual shift feature. The Galant's V6 is among the largest in the midsize car class. It delivers strong takeoffs and satisfying power to merge and pass. A test V6 did 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds. Torque steer--pulling to one side under quick acceleration--was noticed by some testers. The V6's manual-shift feature provides usefully quick downshifts. A test ES 4-cylinder averaged 24.2 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. An extended-use LS V6 averaged 19.7 mpg over its 9869-mile test. V6 Galants require premium-grade fuel. The Galant's ride is comfortable in DE, ES, and LS trim, but it's not as composed at highway speed as a comparable Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, or Mazda 6. The sporty Galant GTS's suspension is firmer, but not harsh. The GTS has appropriately athletic handling, with nicely weighted steering and little body lean in corners. The reasonably nimble DE, ES, and LS have less direct-feeling steering and feel floaty over some crests. On all, stopping power feels adequate in routine braking, but quick stops reveal a spongy pedal feel and mediocre modulation. Inside, Galant's major controls are logically placed and fall readily to hand. The interior has sound assembly, with midgrade materials that are in line with Galant prices. Road and tire noise are pronounced in GTS, less intrusive in DE, ES and LS, but none are as quiet as a comparable Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. Galant's V6 sounds and feels coarse under full throttle. The Galant's front seats easily accommodate 6-footers, and the cabin feels impressively wide. Front seat comfort is good, though the lack of a telescoping steering wheel slightly limits driving-position options. Cars tested had metallic console trim that reflected in windshield in midday light; outward visibility is otherwise fine. Rear-seat head room is tight for 6-footers, but 3-across seating is possible without undue crowding. The rear seat area boasts unconfining footwells and as much knee clearance as any competitor. The rear seat itself is nicely contoured, but a bit too soft for the best comfort. Wide door openings mean easy entry/exit. The Galant's overall cargo space is average. A short decklid and high liftover conspire to limit access to the otherwise well-shaped trunk. The rear seatbacks don't fold, but a trunk pass-through is standard on all models.
Value for the Money
Galant matches midsize class-favorites Honda Accord and Toyota Camry for roominess, and holds its own in acceleration and handling. But it lags in refinement, ride comfort, and materials quality. However, Galant's resale values are lower than Accord's or Camry's, so for budget-conscious shoppers, Mitsubishi's midsize sedan is worth considering.
Galant matches midsize class-favorites Honda Accord and Toyota Camry for roominess, and holds its own in acceleration and handling. But it lags in refinement, ride comfort, and materials quality. However, Galant's resale values are lower than Accord's or Camry's, so for budget-conscious shoppers, Mitsubishi's midsize sedan is worth considering.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mitsubishi Galant LS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 7 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 58 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mitsubishi Galant includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mitsubishi Galant .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
The radio and/or blower may quit working intermittently in hot, humid weather because the ignition key may not fully return to the run position. (1999-04)
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on if there is a lean fuel condition caused by a vacuum leak, manifold gasket leak of from gasoline containing ethanol. (2004-06)
Doors:
The rear door locks corrode and stick if not used regularly. (2004-05)
Engine noise:
Pinging on the 2.4L engine at low speed is corrected by reprogramming the PCM. (2004)
None:
Stumble, hesitation or bucking at high engine speed (over 5400 rpm) caused by valve float on 3.5L engine. (2005-06)
Sunroof/moonroof:
The sound absorbing pads in the sunroof opening can loosen, making a scraping noise and/or interfering with the sunroof. (2004)
Transmission slippage:
A flare when the transmission shifts from 2-3 may be due to damage in the rear housing, requiring replacement of the housing as well as the reverse clutch assembly, seals and bearings. (1999-05)
Turn signal:
Noise from the upper steering column caused by loose turn signal cancel cam. (2004-05)
Water leak:
Water on the passenger floor is caused by foam or debris blocking the drain opening in the A/C unit. (2004)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $1,320 |
| Alternator | $780 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $3,460 |
| Brakes | $1,320 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,450 |
| Exhaust System | $890 |
| Radiator | $920 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,300 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $810 |
Our price chart for this generation Mitsubishi Galant details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| Galant DE, ES | $13,000-15,200 | $11,800-13,800 | $7,500-8,800 |
| Galant Ralliart | $17,500-20,000 | $16,100-18,400 | $11,200-12,800 |
| 2007 | |||
| Galant | $10,800-13,000 | $9,700-11,700 | $5,800-7,000 |
| Galant GTS, Ralliart | $14,500-16,200 | $13,200-14,700 | $9,000-10,000 |
| 2006 | |||
| Galant | $9,000-11,000 | $8,100-9,900 | $4,700-5,700 |
| Galant GTS | $13,000-14,500 | $11,800-13,200 | $7,500-8,400 |
| 2005 | |||
| Galant | $7,500-9,500 | $6,800-8,600 | $3,800-4,800 |
| Galant GTS | $11,000-12,200 | $9,900-11,000 | $5,900-6,600 |
| 2004 | |||
| Galant | $6,300-7,800 | $5,500-6,900 | $2,800-3,400 |
| Galant GTS | $9,800-10,800 | $8,800-9,700 | $5,100-5,600 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mitsubishi Galant include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.3 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 190.6 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.4 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.9 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3351 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.3 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 17.7 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.6 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.0 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.0 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
The 2004-06 Galant DE and ES had a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 160 horsepower (California-emissions versions had 155 hp). Galant LS and GTS models had a 3.8-liter V6 with 230 hp. The sole transmission for both engines was a 4-speed automatic. New for '07, the Ralliart has a 258-hp version of the V6.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc V62 | 3.8 / 234 | 230-258 | 250 | 4-speed automatic: 19/27 5-speed automatic: 18/27 |
4-speed automatic: 19.7 5-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc I41 | 2.4 / 145 | 157 | 156 | 4-speed automatic: 23/30 | 4-speed automatic: 24.2 |
|
1. 4-cyl had 155 hp/155 lb-ft torque in California. 2. 18/26 with GTS. Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mitsubishi Galant include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2004 Galant |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2004-2008 Mitsubishi Galant directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2004-2005:
The ignition key might be removed without putting the gearshift selector in the 'park' position. If the driver removes the key without putting the gearshift selector in the 'park' position and fails to engage the parking brake, the vehicle may roll, and a crash could occur. Dealers will inspect and correct these vehicles for the reported condition.
2005 Galant:
On certain vehicles with anti-lock brakes, the brake master cylinder may be faulty, leading to compromised braking performance. Dealers will replace the master cylinder.
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